CrackerJax to Become 2MSF Mixed-Use

A quaint family outing relic is slated to become the latest North Scottsdale modern mixed-use development.

JDM Partners LLC has filed a zoning request and development plan to recreate the space currently occupied by the CrackerJax Family Fun and Sports Park (16001 N. Scottsdale Road), into La Via or The Village for Innovation and Art. In the development plan introduction, the applicants claim La Via “establishes a new paradigm for place making.”

The 2MSF site will demonstrate influences from classic European plaza spaces while striving for a uniquely modern appearance and function, according to the plan. The intent is to create narrow and winding pedestrian walkways throughout the development, “that bind people to a neighborhood,” the narrative states. “Each difference in space, both small and large, is exploited to create a hundred different moments and the pedestrian experience is captivating and memorable. The result is a truly new paradigm in iconic space, rooted in the timeless spaces of Europe which is not only unique to Scottsdale, but the entire United States.”

Business Real Estate Weekly of Arizona notes JDM Partners, comprised of principals Jerry Colangelo, David Eaton and Mel Shultz, could pay more than $80M for the property, which is located in the Scottsdale Airpark near both Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons. Their article estimates the deal could close in mid-2018.

The development plan says the project’s goal is to complement, not compete with, existing offerings in the area. As planned, between 30 and 50 percent of the development will consist of office space, for a total of between 600KSF-1MSF. Remaining uses in the live/work/play proposal will include a 180-room hotel, 60KSF of restaurant/retail space, a grocery store and 1MSF of residential space. A supplemental request filed with the city notes the residential use will be mixed between rental and condominium components.